Woodside Elementary School families and staff members will celebrate the expansion of their playground Sept. 3 with a dedication ceremony. The event begins at 10 a.m. in the gymnasium and on the playground of the school located at W236 N7465 Woodside Rd., Sussex.

The playground expansion includes an accessible rubber surface under an existing play structure with new stage area, sandbox-table and tunnels. Other additions include a new fitness group, swings and a baseball field with team benches.

The Woodside Home and School organized fundraising efforts for two years in which Woodside families and businesses contributed to activities such as Family Fun Night, a personalized brick campaign and a matching grant from Quad/Graphics Inc. Collaborative efforts from the Village of Sussex, the Hamilton School District and Halquist Stone also contributed to the success and completion of the project.

Woodside parents are excited about the opportunities that will be available for students.

“This playground will provide accessible new play options for the diverse needs of the children in our growing school and community,” said Mary Jo Menzel, a parent and coordinator of the playground expansion effort.